A flavorful and easy-to-make baked chicken recipe with a crispy herb-parmesan crust.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
In a mixing bowl, combine the grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley.
Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl until fully liquid.
Cover the bowl with a paper towel to prevent splattering in the microwave.
Dip each chicken breast into the melted butter, ensuring it is fully coated.
Pat the chicken dry before dipping to help the coating adhere better.
Press the butter-coated chicken into the parmesan mixture, coating it evenly on all sides.
Press firmly to ensure the coating sticks well to the chicken.
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve the herb-crusted parmesan chicken warm with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.